My Wine Heaven in Rioja

By now, you probably know I’m completely in love with Rioja and the Basque Country - the landscapes, the people, the history, the food, and of course, the wine. One of my special places in this region is Bodegas Lecea, a family-run winery tucked into the hillside of San Asensio. They’ve been making wine for at least seven generations, and you can feel that deep history the moment you arrive. Their underground caves aren’t polished or fancy—they’re dark, cool, and hand-carved into the rock, filled with the scent of oak barrels and time. Just outside, the views stretch across sun-soaked vineyards and rolling hills. It’s breathtaking, especially with a glass of their bold, earthy red in hand.

What makes Lecea stand out is how personal it feels. During harvest, they invite you to pick grapes and even stomp them barefoot, the old-fashioned way. And every October, they host a wine festival that started small and now brings in thousands of people—it’s lively, fun, and full of local charm. There’s music, food, laughter, and plenty of wine. It’s one of the best ways to really feel the heart of Rioja. If you ever find yourself in this part of Spain, Lecea is the kind of place that turns a good trip into an unforgettable one